Today, State Senator Mattie Hunter (D – Chicago) advanced the fight against diabetes by having House Bill 1815 signed into law. This new law creates a Diabetes Awareness licenses plate. A portion of the plate’s fees will be donated to the Diabetes Research Check-off Fund which makes grants to public or private entities in Illinois for diabetes research.

“People are suffering from this debilitating disease at an alarming rate,” said Senator Mattie Hunter, Chairperson of the Human Services Committee. “We need to continue searching for prevention methods and ways to improve the lives of those suffering from this affliction.”

Majority Caucus Whip State Senator Mattie Hunter (D-Chicago) has worked over the last four years to create a program that would help to alleviate disparities in the construction industry. On Tuesday, the Governor will sign legislation that establishes a working capital revolving loan fund for disadvantaged business enterprises that have been awarded a current contract to complete construction work with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

"I have worked tirelessly to create a state financing program that will level the playing field for all businesses by providing working capital to contractors who are shut out by the banks but, are qualified to successfully complete state construction projects," Hunter said. "A subcontractor's inability to attain lines of credit severely hinders them from attaining bonding or becoming prime contractors. This legislation works to eliminate one of the major barriers to meeting those goals."

Senator Mattie Hunter held her 10th Annual Health Fair at the Illinois Institute of Technology on August 3. The fair included public services, hair cuts and massages along with a number of entertainment acts.

To view footage from the fair:

Exemplifying her belief that quality medical care is what everyone deserves, Sen. Mattie Hunter championed an initiative extending health care assistance opportunities to the imprisoned recently signed into law  by Illinois’ chief executive.

"Whether in jail or not, you are a person and your health is valuable and a priority," Hunter said, "That is what I'm trying to achieve with this legislation. Being in a penitentiary in no way equates to an individual being undeserving of quality medical attention."